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Volume 3, Number 1
02-03-00

TIM'S SAVVY SEVEN STEPS TO EFFECTIVE PROBLEM-SOLVING

1. KNOW THE PROBLEM
   
   There is an old adage that says, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." To this bit of wisdom I would propose a corollary, "Know what's really broke before you try to fix it." This is probably the biggest mistake made in solving problems. It's not that a problem doesn't exist, nor that the solution applied would not be effective for the problem addressed. The biggest error is that the real or root problem has been overlooked. Why so? Impatience? The need to be seen as a quick thinker or an answer person? Perhaps the desperation that comes from facing variations of the same tired problem over and over again? Most likely it's the lack of a consistently and methodically applied problem-solving strategy. The first step in solving any problem is to accurately identify it. Problems are somewhat like onions. What you see on the surface is just a thin veneer of what the problem is really all about; and you have to peel down through many layers before you can get to the heart of the matter. Those who react too quickly to the first layer of a problem often miss the mark. Yes, they may get some temporary relief or distance from the problem (and that may be a good and necessary step). But if the process doesn't continue, watch out! The longer the real problem is left unattended, the bigger it usually gets. Therefore, after applying the Band-Aid, take the time to think things through and get to work on the real problem. (Stay tuned for an upcoming Quick Tip on a great technique for identifying root problems.)
   
   
2. ARTICULATE THE GOAL
   
   Once you have accurately identified the problem it's time to articulate the goal. The rest of the problem solving strategy is dependent on this step. Make sure you are setting a SMART goal (Specific, Measurable, Appropriate, Realistic, Time-framed). For more information on setting SMART goals, visit the Salubrations archives at www.coachtim.com.
   
   
3. BRAINSTORM SOLUTIONS
   
   This relates to the second most frequent over-site in the process of solving problems: prematurely jumping on a potential solution. It's also the one most commonly made by the people who are paid the most to solve problems! (Ergo the emphasis in big business on "thinking outside of the box!") Some call it creativity, genius, or good luck. I call it good science, i.e. if you methodically follow all of the prescribed steps you are statistically more likely to end up with the desired outcome — a great solution. The steps are simple. Without editing yourself or giving any consideration to the practicality of an idea, generate as many possible solutions as you can, recording them as you go. When you exhaust the list put it away. Now access your resources, form a think tank of others to help you. Include people who are in your same field or who are involved in similar situations, and be sure to involve some who are not overly familiar or routinely involved with the problem or the particular circumstances. Brainstorm with them and add their ideas to the list. Now reflect on your experiences, paying particular attention to unusual solutions or approaches that were effective in the past, even if the problems were completely different from your current dilemma. Now brainstorm again. This "anything goes" approach to brainstorming is critical. The most novel and effective ideas are often inspired by the ones that seem the most impractical or even inane. (There truly is a thin line between absolute brilliance and insanity!)
   
   
4. EVALUATE THE OPTIONS
   
   Now it's time to scrutinize the options. Consider each alternative in terms of practicality, costs, time requirements, availability, required resources, and the probability of producing the desired outcome with in a time frame you can live with.
   
   
5. MAKE A DECISION
   
   Select the "best fit" and begin there. Perhaps a combination of alternatives would best serve your needs. Note that choosing a potential solution is not always as linear as this description would make it seem. This is where your instincts can be most beneficial; you will gain more trust in your instincts by consistently applying this 6-point strategy to all your challenges, big and small.
   
   
6. TAKE ACTION
   
   As the popular saying goes, "There's nothing left to it but to do it." Don't let the pressure of needing to do the "right thing" or the fear of failure stop the process now. You have formed a strategy, based on the available facts and your intuition. Now it's time to put it to the test. Like any experiment, this step should be approached with excitement and an open mind. Regardless of the outcome, you are bound to learn something valuable from the outcome — the moment of discovery. And because you did such a thorough job at Step 3 there are plenty of other alternatives to try if this one is not winner.
   
   
7. ASSESS THE OUTCOME
   
   Decide how and when you will evaluate the outcome of your efforts before you apply a potential solution. Vague observations like "doing better" or "improving" will not cut it in today's competitive business climate, and they will not do justice to your personal strivings or needs. Determine exactly how much and what kind of change is "good enough" and decide how much time you are willing allocate to produce that result. Then choose an objective way to measure the change or result and schedule the assessment in your planner. If you meet your objective, celebrate. Reward yourself and those who were responsible for participating in the solution. If you missed the mark, go back to Step 5, choose another alternative, and try again. Stay with the process until you reach your goal. It's the only way to get really good at solving problems.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dr. Tim Cline is a graduate of Coach University, and has earned the designation of Professional Certified Coach. He supports people in attaining what they really want out of life. From planning through completion, Tim coaches his clients to take the actions needed to reach their goals, achieve success, and to enjoy a true sense of fulfillment in their personal and professional lives. Tim coaches individuals and groups around the country via telephone. If you would like to know more about Coach Tim and his services visit his Web site: www.coachtim.com, or use the contact information below to schedule a free consultation.

Copyright 2000 by T. R. Cline. All rights reserved.